Lactic acid bacteria, (LAB) the work-horses of lacto-fermented foods, have very complex nutritional needs, including the need for minerals.

“…investigations have shown that potassium is required for growth of Streptococcus faecalis, and Lactobacillus casei, while magnesium and manganese are essential for growth of Lactobacillus plantarum and is Lactobacillus casein, and various other lactic acid bacteria.” Orla-Jensen, S., K. Danske Vidensk. Selak., Biol. Skrifter, 2, No. 3, 1943

Minerals increase the strength and power of the LAB. And one of the best, most traditional, time-honored sources of minerals has always been salt – ocean brine or rock salt.